John 17:17 – What is Truth?

“Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.” (John 17:17)

In today’s world, the word “truth” is misused in some frightful ways. People like to claim their “own” truth in situations, that is, their own views and opinions of the world. In those circles, everyone’s “truth” could be different. I wish they could use a different word, because for me, “truth” means what Jesus defines in our verse, part of his prayer. Truth is God’s word.

Context (John 17): This whole chapter is a prayer of Jesus. It’s a very tender moment as Jesus prays after teaching his disciples some very important truths and before he is arrested and put to death. Jesus is showing his own obedience to the Father as his moment has come—the moment for which he was sent. Jesus acknowledges God’s plan and his love for his followers, including those of us who believe. Jesus appeals to God on our behalf for protection and to teach us the truth.

We learn from Jesus’ prayer that our holiness is dependent on God. God is the one who can make us holy. When we are holy, we are set apart for God’s work, obedient to Christ and the Word of God. Is being holy optional for believers? 1 Peter 1:16 tells us, “For the Scriptures say, ‘You must be holy because I am holy.’” Those references are found in the book of Leviticus.

This is Jesus speaking to the Father on our behalf. How cool is that? Jesus wants us to know the truth because it’s that important. God’s word is that truth. When we spend time in God’s word, truth is revealed to us by the Holy Spirit, just as Jesus requested.

1 Corinthians 2:14 says, “But people who aren’t spiritual can’t receive these truths from God’s Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can’t understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means.” So, all those people walking claiming their “own” truth haven’t yet encountered the life-changing truth of God. We can only pray for them that they one day understand and can enjoy the benefits of a Spirit-filled life.

What does truth mean to you? Is it different now that you have reflected on Jesus’ prayer for you? If we live our lives according to God’s truth, we can be confident that God is working to make us holy. Immersing ourselves in the truth of Scripture is our way of preparing ourselves for God to work inside us.

Open your heart today to allow God’s truth to enter and fill all your empty places.

Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for giving us your word so we can know the truth. I pray for the Spirit to reveal more as I am able to handle your truth. It is such an honor to be part of your family with access to your holiness as an example. Cleanse me and purify my heart. Make me more like Jesus every day. I want to shine for you in this dark work full of false truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.